Passion Schurz Remembered at Community Vigil

Community members gathered at Salt River High School on April 1st to hold a vigil for Passion Schurz, a 28-year-old mother found deceased in a Scottsdale canal. The vigil, held on the school’s football field, was a time for song, prayer, and remembrance of Schurz’s life.

A Loving Mother and Community Member

Those who knew Passion Schurz described her as a beautiful woman deeply devoted to her family, particularly her two young daughters. Speakers at the vigil emphasized that her spirit remains present within the community – in the rain, the wind, and the shared love of those who knew her.

Concerns Over Turquoise Alert

The circumstances surrounding Schurz’s death have raised concerns, particularly regarding the lack of a Turquoise Alert. Victoria Gonzales, a family friend and advocate for Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons, believes an alert should have been issued. Gonzales tragically lost her own son several years ago and spoke to the strength of the community during times of mourning.

Gonzales' Statement

“It's about laying baby girl to rest. It's emotional. It's devastating because it's an epidemic. It's a crisis that we have out here,” Gonzales said. “It breaks my heart because she was only 28 years old, and my son was 29. People say it's another dead Indian or something like that, and we hear that, and it gets to us, especially with the young ones, the young ladies like Passion.”

Details of the Discovery and Investigation

Scottsdale police responded to a report on March 28th of a body discovered in a canal near Indian Bend and Hayden roads around 8 a.m. The body was identified as Passion Schurz based on tattoos, physical characteristics, and clothing. Investigators found no immediate signs of trauma, such as fractures, stab wounds, or gunshot injuries.

Salt River Police Response

Salt River Police stated that Schurz’s disappearance did not initially appear suspicious, nor did they have any indication she was in danger. Consequently, they determined her case did not meet the criteria for a Turquoise Alert. A statement from the department explained that the information available at the time of the initial report did not suggest suspicious circumstances.

Ongoing Investigation

The Scottsdale Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Passion Schurz’s death. The case remains open as authorities seek to determine the cause and manner of her death.